Mick Wallace (Wexford, Independent) | Oireachtas source

The museum states that these unpaid internships have been part of the museum landscape for decades. Does the Minister not agree that this type of arrangement contributes to a culture of elitism within the National Museum?

Third level fees this year were €2,500 and by 2016 they will be €3,000. That is a lot of money for families, and most students take on part-time jobs to support their studies. It is bad enough to have these kids facing zero-hour contracts and poor working conditions, but the National Museum actually makes them work for nothing. Therefore, these internships can only be an option for people who are getting significant financial support from their families. Does the Minister think this does anything to help create a level playing field?

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